Joshua Shirk

<p><strong>Meetings & Event Space</strong> <br />Whether you are organizing a corporate retreat, team-building event, meeting, conference, holiday party, festive gathering, or wedding, this region offers flexible venues with alluring indoor and outdoor spaces tailored to diverse group needs. Spaces here facilitate corporate galas and large conferences, while picturesque patios and private dining rooms provide perfect backdrops for VIP meetings and post-event receptions. These venues offer everything from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations. <br /><strong><br />Location</strong> <br />This region offers a striking blend of ocean views and majestic Redwood forests. Groups can begin their journey at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, where towering old-growth redwoods, some nearly 300 feet tall and over a millennium old, create a serene setting for hiking through lush forests and along the San Lorenzo River.<br /><br />Wilder Ranch State Park, where rolling coastal terraces and historic dairy ranches provide miles of hiking and biking trails showcasing sweeping ocean vistas and diverse wildlife.<br /><br />Next, Capitola Village beckons its colorful beachfront cottages, boutique shops, and inviting waterside cafés. Natural Bridges State Beach comes alive with tide pools and seasonal monarch butterfly migrations.<br /><br />Long known as an authentic surf town, the area retains a laid-back coastal culture that blends effortlessly with its natural beauty and creative energy.<br /><br />The region’s dynamic character is magnified by the University of California, Santa Cruz, a renowned research and intellectual hub. Nearby, companies like Joby Aviation contribute to a thriving tech and aerospace community. <br /><strong><br />Transportation & Access</strong> <br />The destination is just a short drive from three airports, which are Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), San Jose International Airport (SJC), and San Francisco International Airport (SFO). These well-connected gateways support both domestic and international flights. You have access to private transportation services that allow for customized transfers and smooth coordination of attendee arrivals and departures.  <br /><strong><br />Activities & Experiences</strong> <br />A cornerstone of the region’s identity, the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a seaside amusement park and arcade with a lively mix of classic rides, games, and panoramic ocean views. Within the Redwoods, Roaring Camp Railroads transports visitors with vintage steam train rides. The on-site Outdoor Activity Museum enhances the historical experience.<br /><br />For a slower-paced outing, sip and savor local flavors at Santa Cruz Mountain Wineries, where rustic tasting rooms and deluxe views provide a relaxed environment. <br /><br />Those drawn to coastal ecology can explore the Seymour Marine Discovery Center, and to engage curiosity, the Mystery Spot remains a hidden treasure, billed as a fascinating gravitational anomaly that defies Physics. <br /><strong><br />On-Site Amenities & Accommodations</strong> <br />Guest rooms and suites reflect the natural surroundings with details like reclaimed wood headboards, river rock flooring, and rain shower heads. Some accommodations feature balconies or fireplaces, and many are pet-friendly.<br /><br />Dining options include on-site restaurants and private dining rooms that serve regional fare and craft beverages, highlighting local favorites on the beer and wine list. Starbucks specialty coffee is also available on-site. Catering services offer customizable menus designed to reflect the size, style, and preferences of each group. <br /><br />Meeting spaces are also equipped with technology, including modern audiovisual equipment, Internet/Wi-Fi, multimedia capabilities, and in-house technical support. <br /><br />Additional amenities include fully equipped fitness centers, heated indoor/outdoor pools, digital key access, and services such as room service, wake-up calls, and dry cleaning. Business centers with printing and administrative support are available at select locations. <br /><strong><br />Featured Event Venues</strong> <br />The region offers a diverse portfolio of venues suited for a wide range of group sizes, program styles, and budgets. Below are a few of my featured event properties that reflect the quality, flexibility, and setting this destination is known for.  <br /><strong><br />Courtyard Santa Cruz</strong> <br /><em>Steps from the Boardwalk, this grand landmark stands at the heart of iconic surf culture.</em> <br />Event Space (including outdoors): 3,399 sq ft <br />Meeting Rooms: 2<br />Guest Rooms: 151, including suites <br /><br /><strong>Hilton Scotts Valley</strong> <br /><em>Tranquil redwood retreat with convenient access to Silicon Valley.</em> <br />Event Space (including outdoors): 5,742 sq ft <br />Meeting Rooms: 6<br />Guest Rooms: 178, including suites <br /><br /><strong>Hotel Paradox, Autograph Collection Santa Cruz</strong> <br /><em>Contemporary hotel captures the essence of bold contradictions.</em>  <br />Event Space (including outdoors): 4,934 sq ft <br />Meeting Rooms: 6<br />Guest Rooms: 170, including suites <br /><br />Additional venue options are also available to match specific logistical needs, group goals, or financial considerations.</p>